Lausanne, Switzerland, December 26, 2016 – Colombia’s women’s team will have a fresh start in 2017 with a new coach: Brazilian Antonio Rizola, who has been charged with directing the team towards the 2018 FIVB World Cup and the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

Following the first meeting of the Technical Committee of the Colombian Volleyball Federation (FCV) with the new coach, FCV President Carlos Grisales hosted a dinner along with Vice President Jose Polchlopek and Treasurer Oliver Cavanzo.

"I am very happy to take on this commitment to carry out this work with the Colombian women's team,” Rizola said. “I am pleased to have the confidence of the president, Carlos Grisales, and other members of the Colombian Federation to prepare a programme for all categories at the national and international level.”

The coach expanded on what he expects from his players: “This is the first time that I have been able to communicate with the athletes, from whom I ask for the utmost care in the preparation process, to put their hearts and pride into representing their country every day in all competitions. Our goal is for Colombia to participate in World Championship events at all levels and to qualify for the Olympic Games. We know the difficulties this involves and that the results will not come without a lot of work, effort and dedication.”

Rizola also addressed his fellow coaches in Colombia: “I also want to address the coaches of the different regions and ask them for their cooperation in favour of national unity on the basis that if the national team achieves good results, everyone wins. I am open to hearing what they have to say. Together, we have to raise Colombia to a higher level within South America and the world, step by step. I would like to emphasize the quality of the work done by my predecessors; we will continue this process of evolution.”